PURPOSE This article describes a framework for evaluating efficiency of OR procedures incorporating time measurement, personnel activity, and resource utilization using traditional industrial engineering tools of time study and work sampling. METHODS The framework measures time using time studies of OR procedures and work sampling of personnel activities, ultimately classified as value-added or non-value-added. Statistical methods ensure that the collected samples meet adequate levels of confidence and accuracy. Resource utilization is captured through documentation of instrument trays used, defects in instruments, and trash weight and classification at the conclusion of surgeries. FINDINGS A case study comprising 12 observations of total knee arthroplasty surgeries illustrates the use of the framework. The framework allows researchers to compare time, personnel, and resource utilization simultaneously within the OR setting. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS The framework provides a holistic evaluation of methods, instrumentation and resources, and staffing levels and allows researchers to identify areas for efficiency improvement. https://www.selleckchem.com/products/XL184.html ORIGINALITY/VALUE The methods presented in this article are rooted in traditional industrial engineering work measurement methods but are applied to a healthcare setting in order to efficiently identify areas for improvement including time, personnel, and processes in operating rooms. © Emerald Publishing Limited.BACKGROUND Obesity has continued to rise in prevalence globally. Its association with&nbsp;many chronic diseases is posing a&nbsp;large threat to public health. OBJECTIVE The aim of this article is to examine briefly the nature and complexity of the&nbsp;problem of obesity and to present evidence about the elements of the built environment that are associated with obesity. DISCUSSION Management of obesity is far more complex than just requiring people to 'eat less and exercise more'. Social and environmental drivers are known to influence an individual's decisions about healthy behaviour. Some elements of the built environment shown to be associated with obesity are urban sprawl, urban design, land-use mix, transport systems, access to and type of&nbsp;food outlets, and building design. This evidence augments the current individual clinical management of obesity by providing guidance to advocates of health and regulators so they are able to design and create environments that foster healthy eating&nbsp;and personal activity.BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) currently accounts for 70.1% of weight-loss surgeries in Australia, according to the Bariatric Surgery Registry. There are limited qualitative studies examining Australian patients' experiences. The aim of this study was to explore patients' perspectives following LSG, providing information for shared decision making. METHOD Twenty-two patients one, two or three years post-LSG were recruited randomly. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth telephone interviews, and responses were analysed inductively. RESULTS Three global themes were identified 1) normality, 2) control and 3) ambivalence, with eight organising sub-themes 1) weight, 2) physical changes and daily living enhancements, 3) exercise, 4) emotional responses, 5) eating behaviour, 6) societal influences, 7) body image and 8) relationships. DISCUSSION LSG is generally associated with high levels of patient satisfaction, with physical and psychosocial benefits beyond metabolic improvements. The&nbsp;decision to undergo this elective procedure should be made with an understanding of the significant and permanent effects it has on patients' lives.BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Approximately one-fifth of the population have persistent pain of moderate-to-severe intensity, which affects patients physically, mentally, psychosocially and financially. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between self?reported wellbeing of patients with persistent pain attending a pain clinic and perceptions of care from general practitioners (GPs) and other treating health professionals. METHOD Patients with persistent pain completed a&nbsp;self-administered survey. RESULTS Overall, only 29 (35%) patients with persistent pain were satisfied with their overall wellbeing, with a positive sense of&nbsp;wellbeing solely predicted by a belief that their GPs are 'treating their problem sympathetically' (P = 0.001; prevalence odds ratio = 5.4; 95% confidence interval 1.9, 14.9). Voluntarily disclosed free-form comments from patients with persistent pain also appear to indicate that GP-managed pain clinics may be able to provide a more consistent level of support and care to patients with persistent pain than other practice settings. DISCUSSION These findings suggest psychological support provided by GPs is an important factor for the maintenance of a positive sense of wellbeing for patients with persistent pain.BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Whole-person care (WPC) is a key characteristic of general practice, but it&nbsp;may not be consistently practised. Previous articles in this series suggest a&nbsp;model of WPC that views patients as multidimensional persons; has length, breadth and depth of scope; is founded on a strong doctor-patient relationship and involves a healthcare team. This article reports factors that general practitioners (GPs) believe affect their provision of WPC. METHOD Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 Australian GPs or general practice registrars and analysed using grounded theory methodology. RESULTS Participants identified overarching factors (time, perceived value of WPC) and factors related to immediate (interpersonal dynamic), local (practice structure, relationship between care providers) and broader (health system structure) contexts that affect WPC. They volunteered practical suggestions to support WPC. DISCUSSION GPs believe that multiple factors acting at&nbsp;micro and macro levels affect WPC provision. These findings provide a basis for strategies to support WPC.BACKGROUND Despite their rarity, primary tumours of&nbsp;the central nervous system have a devastating impact on patient survival and quality of life. The classification of glial tumours has recently changed, and&nbsp;large trials have provided data on&nbsp;treatment impact; however, the treatment armamentarium remains the&nbsp;same, and many questions persist. OBJECTIVE The aim of this narrative review is to discuss the current understanding and management of the most common glial&nbsp;brain tumours to equip general practitioners (GPs) and other non-neuro-oncological specialists with appropriate knowledge to share care and support patients. DISCUSSION Treatment of brain tumours is complex and multifaceted, and it involves many different specialists. Recent advances in translational research and molecular understanding of brain tumours raise hope that new treatments are imminent, and patients should be encouraged to participate in clinical trials. The GP has an important role in patient support and coordination of care.